President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon asserted the country is weary of being a battleground for foreign conflicts, during discussions with an Iranian delegation in Beirut. He emphasized the importance of not interfering in other countries’ internal affairs while expressing a desire for good relations with Iran. Hezbollah’s weakened position following its recent conflict with Israel has contributed to Aoun’s election as president, seen as a West-aligned figure, amid ongoing regional tensions.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun conveyed during a recent meeting with an Iranian delegation that the nation is weary of external conflicts occurring within its borders. This remark was made while the delegation was in Beirut for the funeral of slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, following a turbulent year that included war with Israel and a subsequent ceasefire reached in November.
President Aoun expressed that Lebanon is exhausted from being a battleground for the wars of others, stating, “Countries should not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.” He emphasized the desire for amicable relations with Tehran beneficial to both nations.
Hezbollah, which faced significant losses during the recent conflict with Israel, has seen its influence diminished partly due to the fall of ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria. This shift led to the election of Aoun as president, a candidate favored by Western powers, following a prolonged absence of leadership in Lebanon.
During the Iranian delegation’s visit, Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf extended an invitation for President Aoun to visit Iran. The delegation included prominent Iranian officials and arrived in Beirut despite the suspension of regular flights between the two countries, instituted amid tensions involving the U.S. and Israel.
Hezbollah Chief Naim Qassem, in a speech at Nasrallah’s funeral, criticized U.S. influence in Lebanon, stating the need to reject American control. The United States facilitated a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, which followed extensive conflict throughout the region, predominantly instigated by Hezbollah’s support for Hamas amid the Gaza war.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam reassured Ghalibaf that securing the airport and ensuring passenger safety is a priority for Lebanon, emphasizing this responsibility rests with the Lebanese state. Accusations against Hezbollah regarding arms smuggling through Beirut International Airport have been firmly denied by both the group and Lebanese leaders.
In summary, Lebanon’s leadership, particularly President Joseph Aoun, has asserted the country’s desire to remain uninvolved in external conflicts, emphasizing the need for sovereignty. The meeting with the Iranian delegation highlighted this position, alongside Lebanon’s commitment to fostering positive bilateral relations with Iran while managing its internal security amidst ongoing tensions involving Hezbollah, Israel, and the United States.
Original Source: www.france24.com
